BY: DANIELLE TEPPER
Kelly Aneson of Edison has had an artistic edge for as long as she can remember.
“I can’t imagine a time when I wasn’t doodling on the edge of a notebook,” Aneson said. “Or trying to get paint out from under my fingernails.”
However, it never occurred to her that her passion would someday be showcased to the public.
Aneson’s work is currently on display at The Watermark at 3030 Park in Bridgeport, Conn., as part of an exhibit in conjunction with Sacred Heart University’s Department of Art & Design. Aneson, a graphic design major in her junior year, is one of 14 students being featured through April 11.
This is the third exhibit since the partnership was established in 2011. The Watermark wanted to keep residents aware of upcoming trends in the art and academic world, according to Executive Director Christopher Romick.
“This gives young artists the opportunity to exhibit their work — many for the first time — in an environment where residents are engaged and curious about the work,” Romick said.
First-timer Aneson said being selected was an honor. The work she has on display, a self-portrait entitled “In the Dark,” was created using charcoal. Aneson said it is a drawing that depicts her generation’s dependency on electronic devices.
“We’re plugged in [to our electronic devices] in school, after school, before bed, while in bed — and these devices wake us up in the morning to repeat the process,” she said. “It’s one of my stronger drawing pieces, and it’s very special to me.”
Though skilled in a variety of media, Aneson’s favorite method is graphic design. “I think it’s really crazy how you can manipulate multiple images and end up with one solid work of art,” she said.
Her post-graduation career goal is to become a strong creative component to an ad agency such as R/GA or B-Reel. If not, Aneson said she’d be happy decorating cakes.
The Watermark at 3030 Park is located at 3030 Park Ave. in Bridgeport, Conn.
For information on the Watermark, visitwww.watermarkcommunities.com/3030park. For Sacred Heart’s art program, visit www.sacredheart.edu/academics/collegeofartssciences/academicdepartments/ artdesign.